Unraveling a Confusing Algebra Problem: My Step-by-Step Solution

[t3rom]

Homework Statement

Please see attached pictures for the confusing algebra problem

Relevant Equations

y = mx+b
m = y2-y1/x2-x1

This is the question:

This is what I did. I have no other idea what else I can do to solve this confusing problem.

 

[.Scott]

My first comment is that you are making things hard for yourself by measuring time in days instead of months.

That said, all you are missing is a statement about what your x's are. For the January formula, 'x' is ...

Also, I notice that the problem statement has several questions. Most seem to be rhetorical. But what is your instructors policy on those kind of question? Are you supposed to comment on them?

 

[t3rom]

My first comment is that you are making things hard for yourself by measuring time in days instead of months.

That said, all you are missing is a statement about what your x's are. For the January formula, 'x' is ...

Also, I notice that the problem statement has several questions. Most seem to be rhetorical. But what is your instructors policy on those kind of question? Are you supposed to comment on them?

I haven't been proved with more information other than the given one. And yes, I am supposed to comment on them.

 

[.Scott]

I think you meant "provided", not "proved" - and I didn't think that you were provided anything else specific to this problem. But the 'x's in your equations refer to the date in the month. Since the three months are different, I would note (for example) that for the January function, x is the date in January.

 

[t3rom]

I think you meant "provided", not "proved" - and I didn't think that you were provided anything else specific to this problem. But the 'x's in your equations refer to the date in the month. Since the three months are different, I would note (for example) that for the January function, x is the date in January.

And: Your March equation is wrong.

Yeah, sorry that was a typo. Can you let me know what my March equation is supposed to be? I'm very confused with this question to be honest.

 

[.Scott]

Actually - it is right. I misread the problem when I reread it.